Kelowna

IBEW threatens to picket shops

Local 213 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is turning up the heat against third party businesses in its ongoing labour dispute with FortisBC.

In a letter addressed to automotive repair shops and automotive dealerships leaked to Castanet, the IBEW says it will "pursue its right to picket" any company that services or repairs Fortis vehicles during the dispute.

The letter, signed by IBEW Local 213 Assistant Business Manager, Rod Russell, states in part, "We are writing you because we understand that Fortis may seek to have you side with them in this labour dispute. Fortis is trying to have its vehicles serviced or repaired, including such things as having winter tires mounted and balanced."

It further states, "Since there is no ongoing contract for fleet service, any servicing or repairing of Fortis' vehicles would, in the view of the union, make that company an ally and would allow the union to picket at the shop or dealership for the duration of the labour dispute. The union requests that you not accept any work with Fortis and not assist Fortis in any way during the labour dispute. Otherwise, the union will pursue its right to picket."

Approximately 200 union members were locked out by FortisBC on June 26.

The union claims the company is attempting to apply economic pressure on its members to have them accept inferior terms and conditions of employment.

(Below is the letter)

Photo: Contributed

Special to Castanet.

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